quoted

Is it a bit more efficient to avoid a double check for the
variable "ret" at the end of the current implementation for the
discussed function?

Before asking questions you could answer yourself,
please look at object code produced by the compiler
before and after your proposed changes.

* Do any more source code reviewers wonder about the need
  for such a double check?

* Which object code representations would you find representative
  for a further constructive discussion around this
  software component?

Regards,
Markus